Fused Deposition Modeling, which is often referred to by its initials FDM, is a rapid -prototyping process. The FDM process creates models, functional prototypes and tooling from engineering and many materials.
Like most other additive fabrication processes (such as 3D printing and stereolithography) FDM works on an "additive" principle by laying down material in layers. Several materials are available with different trade-offs between strength and temperature properties.
Unlike some rapid -prototyping processes, FDM requires no special facilities of ventilation and involves no harmful chemicals and byproducts.
Standard engineering thermoplastics, such as ABS, can be used to produce structurally functional models.